Dictionary of Cancer Terms
View in Spanish: Nicotina
Nicotine (NIH-kuh-TEEN)
An addictive, poisonous chemical found in tobacco. It can also be made in the laboratory. When it enters the body, nicotine causes an increased heart rate and use of oxygen by the heart, and a sense of well-being and relaxation. It is also used as an insecticide.
Source: National Cancer Institute Dictionary of Cancer Terms, available at www.cancer.gov/dictionary.